Rail

N.C. CATS restoring $10M in light rail projects

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is restoring about $10 million in projects — including a parking deck and additional ticket vending machines — to the light-rail extension that had been cut four years ago, reported the Charlotte Observer.

In 2010, when CATS was concerned with whether it could afford to build the Blue Line extension, the transit system removed some features to save money. The transit system said most of the contracts for the $1.1 billion rail line have been awarded and prices have been more favorable than projected. The city said bids came in 14% lower than expected. For the full story, click here.

Economic development within one-half mile of the system has been stimulated by ridership that has exceeded original projections. Valley Metro began compiling development activity since construction started in 2005 as part of an economic development database.

The new bike car contains 14 racks that will provide more room to maneuver bicycles on and off the train. A set of seats were removed from the lower level of the vehicle to make room for the bike racks.